When I graduated from college and started working, the most exciting part was actually building my work wardrobe. Of course it is never-ending and I still add to it from time to time. But if I had known then what I know now, my closet would only be filled with affordable, high quality, long-lasting pieces and I wouldn’t have spent as much money stumbling along the way.

I wished that there had been a quick and dirty list of everything I needed to get started. Of course this is not a one stop shop, but it is definitely a good foundation for a work wardrobe on budget.

1. Crisp White Button-Down Shirt: This is the staple of any work wardrobe. Everyone should have at least one if not more. It is versatile and goes with any skirts or pants, for layering or stand-alone, for formal or business casual occasions. Choose a good quality material and non-iron to save headaches later on. Personally I only own two crisp white button-down with the rest along the silky blousy type.

2. Blouse: Start with colors that you know work with your skin tone (if you don’t trust your own judgment, ask your friends): neutral, monochrome colors are great starters. Don’t add patterns yet as they are memorable and harder to pass as a “different” blouse. Choose effortless slip-on shells with simple and feminine silhouette and neckline. Stick with material that are soft, but does not wrinkle easily.

3. Sheath Dress: Instead of the LBD that many people recommended, I choose to go with a sheath dress with solid, neutral hue or simple pattern. It should fit your form without being too snug. Go for one that you can transfer from day wear to night wear. And one that can go from spring to winter with the right accessories. Needless to say, it should be versatile. I opted for pattern, but you get the idea; neutrals and solids are your best friends.

Bottoms:4. Dark/Neutral Trouser: Pick a high-quality straight legged pants that fit comfortably. Look out for pleats because they will accentuate the wrong areas. Wear your pants one inch above ground or hit mid heel. If you prefer wearing flats, you will not magically start preferring heels. Nothing is worse than dragging your hem across the office or pants that scream “short!” Don’t forget, the tailor is your best friend.

5. Dark Pencil Skirt: Whether it is pencil skirt or A-line, be sure to select a skirt that is knee length and fits your figure. More than one inch above your knee is not considered to be office appropriate. Also make sure your skirt hits the waist at the right place. One fitting too low would risk making you look old and wide-hipped. Once you settled on a figure-flattering skirt, it can be paired with so many items in your closet that will effortlessly transition you from season to season. Aside from AT, I also love the No. 2 Pencil Skirts from J. Crew (40% off with code SHOPMORE).

6. Clean-Cut Blazer: The perfect blazer is key to making your wardrobe work. With the right piece, you can pair it with virtually everything you have: dresses, skirts, pants, and jeans. Choose a blazer in a conservative color, black, navy, or grey, that is versatile and fits comfortably.

Pointers to a perfect fitting blazer:
1. Seam should fall right on your shoulder blade
2. Sleeves should be at where your thumb joins your wrist
3. Length and fit depends on your style.

7. Cardigan: Cardigans are one of my favorite pieces. It can be worn all seasons for layering over tops, dresses, and any other outfit. The basic colors are black, grey, and navy. Choose one to start with and add other pops of color later on. It’s just such a convenient item to have in your purse and be able to pull one out for a cold air-conditioned place or even to cover stains.

8. Trench Coat: Perfect for wearing three seasons a year, a beige trench coat is a coat worth investing. Look for the classic trench that never goes out of style. Instead of going for a Burberry that is known for their trench coat, consider more affordable options such as Zara, The Gap, J. Crew, and Ann Taylor. The coat should fit in the shoulders with a style and length that suits you.

9. Black Leather Pumps: Black pumps go with everything and do not stain easily. They can easily transition you from day to night. Fit and comfort are the two most important elements when it comes to your staple heels. It is unrealistic to need to “break in” your shoes. Preferably invest in a pair of leather pumps so it breathes and conforms to your feet. I’ve purchased many many pairs of pumps and Brooks Brothers heels are the ones i kept going back for. These beauties are so comfortable even after wearing for long hours. Recently, there have been issues with it as discussed in past post. My alternative now is AT pumps which are classy and comfy and affordable.

10. Black Leather Flats: It’s good to have a pair in your office when you need to walk around a lot and don’t need to be imposing. A nice pair of black leather flats will let you relax and spare the horror of others by going barefoot. I would recommend leather flats for the same reason as pumps.

11. Camisole: These can be the ones found in your closet. A white and a black camisoles are musts.

12. Legging: I prefer the none see-through ones that are supple and not prone to snags. Purchase slightly better quality ones to avoid awkward moments when your legging snags in office.

Accessories:13. Skinny Leather Belt: A simple belt can make you look even more put together. It will accent your whole look when belted with trousers or it can make you look more sophisticated over a cardigan and skirt. Opt for a leather belt so it lasts. AT leather belts can be around $10-15 when on sale.

14. Medium-Sized Leather Handbag: It should be a perfect everywhere bag whether going to work, to lunch, to dinner, or go shopping. It should be large enough to hold whatever you need during the day, but not so large that it makes you look out of proportion or if it makes you look awkward running with it. And always go for leather because it lasts years after purchase and color will not become dull after years of use.
(Ann Taylor Gallery Tote & Zara Mini City Bag)

With extra 60% off sales every so often and 50% off full price items, Ann Taylor is a great place to pick up some great deals. (60% off with code SAVE60 till midnight 7/7/2014)
Zara has summer sale in June and winter sale in late December, great time to pick up some essentials as well.
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Here’s a guide I find useful for wardrobe essentials. It analyzes whether to splurge or to save.